MGM one day trip with old Dad??

[aviva5675]

My dad is in Sarasota for the winter, and I'm going to visit Jan 29 for a few days. He's only been at WDW for one day decades ago (MK). Am thinking of driving him over so he can go to MGM for a day. He loves movies. He wouldn't go on many rides (only GMR, Back Lot, maybe a show, Muppets,?) and I'm wondering if it's worth it. Hes 78 and tires, so we would be doing alot of walking -sitting-walking-sitting, which is fine with me. Thought we'd drive over on 1/30 and sleep, then go to the park in the morning, 1/31. The crowds should be low. I think he would still have a good time--seeing the park, the characters, the history of Disney stuff---Anyone done a one day with an old person??

 

[disney junky]

We did a day with the in-laws. FIL was still recuperating from open heart surgery so we did the rides you mentioned. The One Man's Dream exhibit is a really nice walk through plus the movie at the end is terrific, especially as it portrays Walt's early years, going to the war and such. Just take it easy. You'll have a really great time. After all, it's WDW!

 

[Amy&Dan]

Well I have done 7 day trips with my elderly parents. They both really enjoyed MGM. The One Man's Dream exhibit in particular as well as the live shows and the GMR and Fantasmic! It is the smallest of the four parks (I think) so if you are worried about the tired factor that makes it a good pick. You might want to consider renting him a scooter. I think your idea of staying somewhere the night before and arriving fresh is a good one. WDW is for kids of all ages, I think your dad would have a great time, I know mine (age 81 at the time) did!

Oh and my parents both loved Sci Fi! Those old sci flicks really brought back memories for them and it was nice to have a nice, quiet relaxing sit down lunch. Prime Time is also fun and has some fun nostalgia factor for your dad. I like to have a sit down lunch at MGM because I think their counter service is crummy and they have two incredibly well themed restaurants with the ones I just mentioned. For that matter, Brown Derby is also nice, my in laws (who are also elderly) enjoyed their lunch their greatly when we took them. But its pricey. If your dad likes movies, Sci Fi would be a winner.

 

[aviva5675]

Thats what Ive been thinking too. Thought of lunch at BD (going to call and make ADR this week, just in case), or Sci fi or Prime Time. I think it'd be fun-- and probably a last chance for him to go. I think the drive isn't too bad-- 1 1/2 hrs from Sarasota?

 

[disnut8]

I know how male pride gets in the way but would he be OK with renting a wheelchair for the day? My 77 year old father went to Disney World with my stepmother. I advised them to get a wheelchair and he didn't. After a half day at Epcot, my stepmother called me and said she didn't think he was going to be able to make it out of the park and where could they rent a wheelchair? We met up with them for a day at Animal Kingdom and he was in a wheelchair. So much easier. That's just a suggestion because I know males will ruffle their feathers when that idea is even brought up.

Other ideas for your father. You cannot miss One Man's Dream. Talk about Disney history! There's also the hand and feet prints in front of the entrance to the Great Movie Ride. And the Hall of Fame area over by Sounds Dangerous. Busts of people who have made a contribution to the Disney empire over the years. He might also enjoy the Animation Tour.

This might be way over the top given his age, he might get a kick out of it. Go to Twilight Zone but don't do the drop. Just go through the preshow with Rod Serling and then through the boiler room. Exit via the Express Elevator.

I agree Sci Fi would be an excellent choice for lunch. We had excellent burgers there. I have never had a bad meal here. He'd probably be amazed at how Disney presents a dining experience.

I think it's great you are taking the time to spend a day with your father. Have a great time!

 

[makinorlando]

My 82 year old mother enjoyed MGM as well. She has been a couple times now. I agree that stamina wise it is the easiest park on her. She LOVED LOVED LOVED Fantasmic and Prime Time Cafe. She like the Great Movie Ride as well. I think we missed One Man's Dream on both visits, so that's something for the next time.

She will be arriving on 12/24, but I''m not sure how much park time we will have, she broke her femur the beginning of Nov and is recuperating. Hopefully she will stay long enough past the holiday weeks that we can visit when it's not so busy and take our time!

 

[AJKMOM]

It might be more than 2 hours to drive from Sarasota. It was 1 1/2 from Busch Gardens in November. Your father might like to stay at one of the Disney themed resorts; then when you arrive at night, you could take the busses around and look at the rest of the resorts.

 

[TikiGoddess]

I also think he'd enjoy the animation tour. Seems like the street performers might be something he'd enjoy as well.

 

[aviva5675]

Thanks for more suggestions. I think it would be fun for him--and I get to go back for a day! I think alot depends on the weather too. Maybe Ill make hotel and ADRs reservations and then we can play it by ear. I can bring my non exp tick with me (I have 7 days left) and we can just get a one day for Dad...

Keep those suggestions coming!